Standardized Patients (SPs) serve a critical role in the education of future healthcare professionals. SPs are trained to accurately and consistently portray real-life medical scenarios to support student learning and assessment. These individuals help students develop clinical reasoning, communication, and interpersonal skills in a safe, supportive environment. SPs participate in both educational encounters and high-stakes assessments. This is a part-time, per diem position. Work assignments are based on academic scheduling and individual availability. Paid training is required prior to participation in educational sessions.
Responsibilities
- Accurately portray assigned patient cases, including medical history, symptoms, emotional characteristics, and physical responses, following standardized scripts and training protocols.
- Memorize and retain case details to respond appropriately to learner questions in simulated clinical settings.
- Allow students to perform non-invasive physical examinations while maintaining professionalism and modesty.
- Observe and assess student performance, providing timely, objective, and constructive feedback using approved tools and rubrics.
- Maintain strict confidentiality regarding student performance, case materials, and assessment information.
- Attend all mandatory training sessions and scheduled assignments punctually.
- Incorporate feedback from faculty and staff to improve performance and feedback delivery.
- Complete end-of-day room reset and cleaning duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Flexible availability during business hours (Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.) throughout the academic year. Full-week availability is not required.
- Ability to adhere to structured schedules and time constraints.
- Basic proficiency with digital tools, including email, Zoom, web-based platforms, and typing short feedback narratives under time limits.
- Reliable and prompt communication regarding assignments.
- Comfort wearing a medical gown over suitable undergarments (e.g., athletic shorts and a sports bra or equivalent).
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Professional and courteous conduct in all interactions with students, faculty, staff, and other standardized patients.
- Fluency in spoken and written English.
- Reliable transportation to the UNE Portland Campus.
EEO Statement Summary
Consistent with federal and state law and University policy, the University of New England is committed to the fundamental concept of equal opportunity for all of the members of the University community. The University prohibits, and will not tolerate, discrimination in employment, the provision of academic services or in any other area of University life based on race, color, sex, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, ethnicity, genetic information, HIV status, or status as a veteran. Prohibited bias factors should not motivate decisions regarding students, employees, applicants for admission, applicants for employment, contractors, volunteers or participants in and/or users of institutional programs, services, and activities.
COVID Vaccination Statement (PLEASE NOTE)
Employees in clinical settings must meet the State of Maine’s immunization requirements for clinical activity.